Bright and early, Cody, my mom, and I fought the morning traffic and headed to the medical center for what we knew would be a very long day. Our first appointment was with the pediatric cardiologist to perform a fetal echocardiogram. Our anxiety levels were high because the heart is such a critical organ, and children with omphaloceles commonly have very serious associated heart defects (Pentalogy of Cantrell, Tetralogy of Fallot, etc.). All three of us were in awe as we watched the screen and were able to see his peanut-sized heart magnified to the size of a watermelon. They checked every valve, artery, chamber, and countless other things that I cannot even pronounce. Everything looked great, and our little guy aced his first test with a score of 10/10! (Naturally, I treated him to a cookie at lunch for such good work!!)
After leaving the pediatric cardiologist, we had another very stressful event - finding something to eat for lunch. Evidently, people in the medical center only eat sandwiches because that seemed to be our only choice within walking distance. This caused quite a predicament for me because expectant mothers are not supposed to eat lunch meat. That left only one other option for us...hospital cafeteria food. Although it was edible, it was ridiculously overpriced and filled with empty calories. As we finished eating, I declared that I would start making alternate plans for my upcoming days spent in the NICU!
Our full anatomy scan ultrasound was next on the schedule, and we were all excited to get a good look at Hayes. He loves to move around, so the ultrasound technician was busy chasing him around my tummy as she checked everything from his ten little toes to the parts of his brain. My maternal-fetal medicine specialist and genetic counselor were also in the room, so they were able to point things out to us and ease our minds throughout the ultrasound as well. Of course, we spent lots of time looking at his omphalocele too. At this time, it looks like only his liver is contained in it. This was amazing news since we previously saw his intestines and part of his stomach in it as well. More great development from our baby boy!
A consultation with the pediatric surgeon was our last appointment of the day, and I had been researching and preparing myself for this meeting since the initial diagnosis. As soon as he walked in the room and started talking, I knew that we were in good hands though. He was open and honest in describing the treatment methods and possible complications associated with omphaloceles. He also explained that although we can discuss and prepare for all of these things, we will not be able to come up with a definite plan until Hayes makes his arrival and we know his exact condition. Although this means more waiting for us, I was relieved to know that our little guy will be treated on an individual basis and will receive the best possible care laid out just for him!
Overall, it was a wonderful day filled with lots of good news!! We are excited about the spring, and we cannot wait to meet the miracle we have created! Look at how precious he already is...
His Handsome Face
(He was chugging some amniotic fluid in this shot...such a daddy's boy!)
Sweet Little Toes
Also, here is a link to our awesome team of doctors and their clinic. We are so grateful to be in the care of Dr. Mastrobattista, the fetal center director, as well as Dr. Tsao, our pediatric surgeon...
http://www.texasfetalcenter.org/
1 comment:
I love reading your updates! You look so cute. Glad things are looking good!
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